“There are many ways Arkansans could actually save money during the hottest months of the year,” says Scott Hamilton, director of the Arkansas Energy Office. “Closing the shades and turning off heat-generating sources when you’re not using them are just a couple ways to keep your home cool and money in your pocket.”
The organization has compiled hundreds of recommendations and tips, ranging from no-cost reminders to long-term investments, on its website, TightenUpArkansas.org. Highlights to maximize efficiency for the summer include:
Remember to turn off the lights and ceiling fans when not in a room. Light fixtures not only use energy, they generate heat and therefore add to cooling costs.
Remember to turn off the lights and ceiling fans when not in a room. Light fixtures not only use energy, they generate heat and therefore add to cooling costs.
Install a programmable thermostat if one is not already in place. This simple $100 investment can save up to $115 annually. The recommended minimum thermostat setting in the summertime is 78 F. When away, set the thermostat 5 to 10 degrees higher.
Shut the shades and drapes on the sunny side of the home to keep out the sun’s heat. For the most benefit, drapes should be made of a tightly woven, light-colored, opaque fabric.
Plug electronics into a single power bar and switch off the bar when not using them. TV’s, DVD players and home stereos still use energy when in standby mode.
Seal around windows, doors, electrical outlets and openings or holes in exterior walls.
“Our partnering energy companies also offer great incentives to help you realize the benefits of energy efficiency. Visit our website or contact your provider to learn more,” says Hamilton.
Partnering agencies include Entergy, American Electric Power, CenterPoint Energy, Arkansas Public Service Commission, Arkansas Oklahoma Gas Corporation, Arkansas Energy Office, Empire, Oklahoma Gas and Electric, Arkansas Western Gas Company and Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas.
About Energy Efficiency Arkansas
TightenUpArkansas.org includes additional features to help homeowners understand their home’s energy consumption, including an interactive, room-by-room guide and an instructional how-to guide for do-it-yourself projects. The organization has also launched a Facebook Fan Page (http://facebook.com/EnergyEfficiencyArkansas) and Twitter handle (http://www. twitter.com/#!/ARenergy) that provides daily tips, interesting/fun facts and helpful links. Consumers can also call 1-888-524-4567 for personal assistance.
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Many of us face the problem of having to pay higher electricity during the months of summer because we use our HVAC systems more during these times but we can still cut back on our expenses if we follow the given tips in this post. Hopefully, we will be able to find effective methods that we can follow so that we continue living comfortably in our homes and not worrying about the high electricity bills any longer.
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